Elder abuse and neglect in South Africa: a case of marginalization, disrespect, exploitation and violence.
The problem of elder abuse and neglect in South Africa is widespread, but the definition of abuse remains problematic. An expanded typology is needed to classify certain types of abuse reported commonly, such as marginalization, disrespect, exploitation and violence. The history of elder abuse and responses is traced, relevant legislation and selected intervention programs are reviewed, and research and the status of elder abuse are evaluated. Interventions to address sociostructural factors that impact elders' settings, increase their vulnerability, and diminish their ability to realize human rights can contribute to an improvement in their condition and a reduction in abuse and rights violations in the long-term.
Ferreira
Monica
M
International Longevity Centre-South Africa, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, South Africa. monicaferr@mweb.co.za
Lindgren
Pat
P
D000368:Aged; D004552:Elder Abuse / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006291:Health Policy; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000458:organization & administration; D006801:Humans; D012106:Research; D013019:South Africa; D009626:Terminology as Topic